Info about the rehabilitation of destitute children: Himachal & Union Govt not filed reply for months
Himachal Pradesh High Court directed the Union of India and State Himachal Pradesh to compile with the court four-month-old order and inform about the steps taken for the rehabilitation of destitute children who are forced to beg in towns across the state, including Shimla city.
A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Virender Singh was hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by undergraduate student Ashmita Singh Thakur which revealed about the pathetic plight of destitute kids who are often seen begging in public places including Mall Road and Ridge ground.
Pulling both the respondent that the union of India and the State of Himachal Pradesh in the matter court observed that four months since the notice was issued have been lapsed however, no reply has not been submitted in the matter.
Court passed a fresh order in the PIL asking both governments to file a reply and information within three weeks on 10 points related to the issue.
The court asked the counsel for both governments also present during the hearing that a reply must be shared about how many children were involved in schemes announced for the welfare of children living in the street.
Court has also sought information about the number of shelters opened in the state, no. of suitable facilities in daycare centers set up for children in street situations and no. of children living in street situations admitted to schools after identification.
